The Bridge has many modes of vibration, or ways in which it can move in response to wind or earthquakes. This mechanical hands-on exhibit lets visitors “excite” (shake) the model in varying ways to see how it responds. The main span between the towers can sway sideways, back and forth like a swing, or it can take on a snake-like pattern of vertical or horizontal displacement depending on the rate at which it is moved. In the try-out of the prototype at the Bridge, it also served the useful purpose of providing visitors with photo opportunities and activities when the Gate was socked in with thick fog.

Funding for the project has been provided by the Division of Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings, National Science Foundation. Dr. Al DeSena is the NSF project officer for this award. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.

All images are the property of the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District and cannot be re-used without its permission. Contact Mary Currie, Public Affairs Director, mcurrie@goldengate.org